The tone was set by Mourinho - Benfica criticised by Kick It Out

Sanjay Bhandari, chair of the anti-racism organisation Kick It Out, has accused Benfica and their manager Jose Mourinho of failing to provide adequate support during the ongoing racism dispute involving the Portuguese club and Real Madrid. Bhandari contends that the combined response from Benfica and Mourinho has effectively set the tone for how the matter has been handled publicly, suggesting that their stance has influenced wider perceptions and reactions to the controversy. Kick It Out’s intervention underlines growing scrutiny over how clubs and managers address allegations of racism, with Bhandari’s remarks intensifying pressure on Benfica to adopt a more proactive and supportive approach.